<poem> These bind me, captive ta'en, with band Of carking care and fell annoy; While under hatches yet I stand, Thereby quite to abandon joy.
Then hoisting sails, they homeward hie, And me present unto DISDAIN: Who me beheld with scorning eye, The more for to increase my pain.
As Lady, she commanded straight, That to DESPAIR they me convey: And bade with skilful heed lie wait That TRUTH be barred from me away.
"Madam," quoth I, "let due desert Yet find remorse for these my woes. Of pity, grant some ease to smart. Let TROTH draw near to quail my foes."
But all for nought I do complain, For why? The deaf can move no noise. No more can they which do disdain; But will in heart thereat rejoice.
Wherefore twixt life and death I stay; Till TIME with daughter his, draw nigh, Which may these furious foes dismay: Or else in ruthful plight I die. <poem> FINIS.
